Natalino Balasso - Ragni

mmadethrissur

Review by mmade thrissur

Album Review: Ragni by Natalino Balasso – A Hidden Italian Gem from 1985 Alright, let’s talk about Ragni, the debut album by Natalino Balasso, an artist who kinda flew under the radar but left behind something special. Released in 1985 on Mantra Records, this Italian pop-rock masterpiece blends acoustic vibes with storytelling lyrics that feel like a warm hug and a punch to the gut at the same time. With styles ranging from Pop Rock to Chanson, it’s got layers—like your favorite lasagna, but for your ears. The whole thing is packed with emotion, melody, and just enough grit to keep it real. Produced by Valerio Cirelli (who clearly knew what he was doing), the record features tight arrangements by Franco Chiaravalle and killer performances from musicians like Mino Fabiani on bass and Gilberto Zilioli shredding guitar. But honestly? It’s Balasso himself—writing both music and lyrics—that makes this album stand out. He’s pouring his heart into every track, and you can tell. Now, I wanna zoom in on two tracks because… well, they stuck with me. First up is “Ragni.” Yep, the title track. From the moment Gigi Tonet hits those keys, you’re hooked. The song has this haunting vibe, like walking through foggy streets late at night while thinking about life choices. Balasso sings about struggles, resilience, and how we all get tangled in our own webs sometimes. You don’t need to speak perfect Italian to feel the weight of his words—it’s universal stuff. And Andy Surdi’s percussion? Subtle but sharp, giving the tune a heartbeat that stays with you long after it ends. Then there’s “Paesi Miei.” Oh man, this one feels like home. It’s nostalgic without being cheesy, painting vivid pictures of small towns, dusty roads, and simpler times. Balasso’s voice cracks ever so slightly here and there, which somehow makes it even more beautiful. There’s no grand explosion or flashy solo; it’s just raw and honest. When Gilberto Zilioli’s guitar kicks in halfway through, it’s like someone opening a window to let fresh air in. Simple yet powerful. What strikes me most about Ragni is its balance. It’s not trying too hard to impress anyone—it’s confident in its imperfections. Tracks like “Otto Anni” and “La Volpe Vecchia” bring variety, mixing upbeat energy with reflective moments. Even the quieter songs like “Nebbia” leave a mark, thanks to Paolo Bocchi’s clean production work. But here’s the kicker: listening to this album feels like finding an old photograph in your grandparents’ attic. It’s faded around the edges, maybe a little forgotten, but full of stories waiting to be rediscovered. Sure, it came out in the ‘80s, but these themes still hit close to home today. We’re all spinning our webs, chasing dreams, or looking back at where we came from. And honestly? That’s kinda comforting. So grab a coffee, turn down the lights, and give Ragni a spin. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find yourself humming “Paesi Miei” tomorrow morning—or realizing spiders aren’t so scary after all.

Table of Contents

Download

Filename: natalino-balasso-ragni.zip
  • MP3 size: 70.8 mb
  • FLAC size: 408 mb

Tracks

TrackDurationPreview
Il Solito Vuoto2:55
Nebbia3:00
Siamo Una Foglia3:16
Noi Che Non Siamo Eroi3:28
Otto Anni4:18
E... Alzo Gli Occhi3:32
Sembrano Felici3:16
Conclusione0:45
La Volpe Vecchia3:18
Introduzione0:42
Paesi Miei3:58
Ragni2:05

Images

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Catalog Numbers

MAN LP 0187

Labels

Mantra Records

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Formats

  • Vinyl
  • LP
  • Album

Companies

RoleCompany
Recorded AtMantra Recording Studios
Printed ByGraphyche Magica 2000
Made ByMantra Software
Phonographic Copyright (p)International Audio Film

Credits

RoleCredit
Arranged ByFranco Chiaravalle
Bass GuitarMino Fabiani
DrumsAndy Surdi
PercussionAndy Surdi
EngineerPaolo Bocchi
GuitarGilberto Zilioli
KeyboardsGigi Tonet
Lyrics ByNatalino Balasso
Music ByNatalino Balasso
ProducerValerio Cirelli

Interesting fact about Album

Did you know? The 1985 Italian album *Ragni* by Natalino Balasso is a hidden gem blending Pop Rock, Acoustic, and Chanson styles. Each track feels like a journey through raw emotions and storytelling, with "Noi Che Non Siamo Eroi" standing out as a heartfelt anthem. The album was meticulously crafted, with Franco Chiaravalle arranging and Valerio Cirelli producing, while the talented Mino Fabiani laid down the basslines. It’s a piece of Italian music history that deserves more ears!